Board members, staff and community supporters of the health service attended the function.

Representatives from the Ararat branch Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, auxiliary members, volunteers and others who have come to know Mr Davies over his nine years with the health service enjoyed the chance to mingle and personally offer their best wishes to the CEO.

Mr Davies was appointed CEO of the East Grampians Health Service in 2000 and since that time has had extensive involvement with the Ararat community.

In his time in Ararat Mr Davies has seen the health service undergo major redevelopment and has welcomed the introduction of valuable initiatives.

At Friday's function Mr Davies praised the board, staff and community for their support of the health service.

''I am proud to be part of the current decade of achievement and am so very impressed by the extent of the good will and generosity currently extended to EGHS,'' Mr Davies said.